Research & Educational Use Only. Not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.
Mitochondrial Peptide / Exercise MimeticEvidence Grade: B (Preclinical + Early Human)
MOTS-C Protocol Guide
MOTS-C is a 16-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene. It functions as an exercise mimetic by activating AMPK, improving glucose uptake, enhancing fatty acid oxidation, and improving insulin sensitivity. Research shows it regulates metabolic homeostasis, protects against age-related metabolic decline, and may contribute to longevity. This protocol covers subcutaneous dosing at 5-10mg 3-5x weekly, reconstitution, metabolic timeline, and stacking with other longevity compounds.
Protocol Overview
- Compound
- MOTS-C (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of 12S rRNA Type-C)
- Category
- Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide / Exercise Mimetic
- Mechanism
- Activates AMPK pathway, enhances glucose uptake via GLUT4 translocation, increases fatty acid beta-oxidation, improves mitochondrial function and biogenesis
- MW
- 2,174 Da (16 amino acids)
- Half-Life
- ~4-6 hours
- Vial
- 10mg lyophilized
- Route
- Subcutaneous
- Frequency
- 3-5x weekly
- Cycle
- 4-8 weeks
Dosing
| Protocol | Weeks | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 1-8 | 5 mg | 5x weekly (weekdays) |
| Intensive | 1-4 | 10 mg | 5x weekly |
| Maintenance | 5-8 | 5 mg | 3x weekly |
Reconstitute 10mg with 1mL BAC water = 10mg/mL. 5mg = 50 units. Inject subcutaneously in abdomen, morning preferred (align with metabolic activity).
Timeline
Week 1-2
Improved exercise performance and endurance. Enhanced glucose utilization. Increased energy levels.
Week 3-4
Measurable improvements in insulin sensitivity. Enhanced fat oxidation during exercise. Better post-exercise recovery.
Week 5-8
Significant metabolic optimization. Improved body composition. Enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis. Sustained metabolic health improvements.
Side Effects & Stacking
Side Effects
- Injection site irritation (mild)
- Mild hypoglycemia risk (monitor glucose)
- Fatigue initially (metabolic adaptation)
- Generally very well tolerated
Stacking
- NAD+: Mitochondrial synergy
- Semaglutide/Tirzepatide: Metabolic optimization
- Tesamorelin: Visceral fat targeting
- 5-Amino-1MQ: NNMT inhibitor for metabolism
- GHK-Cu: Anti-aging complement
Blood Work
| Panel | Markers | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Metabolic | Fasting glucose, HbA1c, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR | Baseline, Week 4, 8 |
| Lipids | Full lipid panel, ApoB | Baseline, Week 8 |
| Basic | CBC, CMP | Baseline, Week 4 |
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